In times of illness, isolation and anxiety, MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center understands that emotional and mental well-being is just as important as physical treatment.
In an inspiring initiative, two dedicated nurses, Rosie Obligacion and Chris Wright, have launched “Healing Harmonies,” a unique volunteer-based musical program designed to provide comfort and solace through live music. This heartfelt endeavor, driven by Rosie and Chris’ compassion and love for music, has been embraced and supported by MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center.
Rosie and Chris, full-time overnight nurses in the intensive care unit, spend their nights dedicated to caring for critically ill patients. However, their commitment to their patients does not end after their 12-hour nursing shift. At dawn, they clock out and put on their volunteer shirts, transforming into the musical volunteer duo “Healing Harmonies,” spreading cheer through heartfelt performances.
“Sometimes hospitals can be so alien-ating, and I want to show them that we care,” says Chris Wright. “We are not just here to get a paycheck. We want to be a source of light in their loneliness. We are here for the patients who never smile, and once we play for them, that changes; we get that smile, and they sing along.“
The musical experience is unforgettable. Their soothing melodies uplift spirits and heal souls, creating a harmonious atmosphere during challenging times. Combining captivating vocals and soothing guitar melodies, they visit various units within the hospital, kindly inquiring if any patients would like
to experience the uplifting music. Patients are offered a selection of songs from different genres, allowing them to choose their favorites.
“We started ‘Healing Harmonies‘ at Orange Coast Medical Center because we want to promote a holistic healing approach for our patients,” says Rosie Obligacion. “Our patients may be deeply afraid, in psychological pain, or physical pain, and instead of giving them strong pain medication or a sedative, we try and sing to them first. It helps them calm down enough to relax, sleep, and ultimately, heal.”
For one 26-year-old, having “Healing Harmonies” sing to her while she was at the hospital has been a source of light during a difficult time. A security guard at the hospital, Jesus Bega, was so moved by Rosie and Chris, that he also decided to join in on the performance that day.
“Sometimes being at the hospital can be boring and sad, because I want to be at home with my family,” says 26-year-old Anayeli Cruz. “This made me feel like there is hope. They sang, ‘Here Comes the Sun,’ and I thought the guitar was coming from the stereo – it was so amazing.”
MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center proudly supports Rosie and Chris’s volunteer efforts through “Healing Harmonies,” highlighting the profound impact of compassionate care. This volunteer-based program blends medical expertise with the healing power of music, enhancing the well-being of patients during their most vulnerable moments. Rosie and Chris’s commitment to their patients proves that the most powerful medicine often comes from the heart of our health care workers.
